TV Season Shrinkage Speeds Up For Networks

The following is a selection from Brandon Katz of Parrot Analytics.

From 2020 to 2024, the average season for U.S. network shows has declined by 33.3%, according to data from Parrot Analytics. While last year's work stoppages do play a significant role (this year's shows were delayed and seasons were shortened as a result), it still highlights a hastening pace for industry dynamics that are changing the way TV is consumed, produced and distributed.

• Even just compared to 2023, U.S. network shows' seasons dropped from an average of 13 episodes to 11.8.
• Though streaming seasons have dipped as well – from an average of 9.7 episodes in 2020 to 9.3 in 2024, it's still a relatively small change.
• The difference in decreases for streaming vs. network could be indicative of network TV caving to market conditions beyond just work stoppages – but the fact that consumers are watching a ton on streaming, and start to expect TV series to mimic those (shorter) models.

[read the rest of Brandon Katz's post on TVREV]